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Hosted by the World Historic and Cultural Canal Cities Cooperation Organization (WCCO), the 2025 International Youth Dialogue on Canal Civilization recently commenced in Yangzhou, the starting point of the Beijing-Hangzhou Canal, as a vital part of the fourth Dialogue on Exchange and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations.
The 2025 International Youth Dialogue on Canal Civilization takes place in Yangzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
Distinguished guests from over 10 countries, including the United States and France, scholars from prestigious Chinese universities such as Peking University and Tsinghua University, and more than 100 representatives of governments and international organizations convened to discuss the preservation, innovation, and future of canal civilization.
During the event, two roundtable forums were held. By tracing historical origins, sharing practical cases, and conducting cross-disciplinary dialogues, they explored the dissemination of canal culture from the perspective of mutual learning among civilizations and the role of youth in cultural exchange.
Attendees visit WCCO during the 2025 International Youth Dialogue on Canal Civilization. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
Participants also experienced the timeless allure of canal culture on a three-day journey through Yangzhou.
They marveled at the magnificent legacy of the millennium-old Beijing-Hangzhou Canal at the China Grand Canal Museum, learned about international cooperation regarding canals at the WCCO Secretariat, and were enthralled by the enduring vibrancy of the ancient waterway on an immersive night tour.
Women wear traditional Chinese attire while touring Yangzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
